The Vandiver — Restaurant in Clayton

On a rainy Sunday Night in North Georgia we had a group of seven looking for great food and fellowship after a long day of adventuring and college football in the days before. We’d heard that the Bridge Creek Inn in Clayton’s neighboring restaurant was having their grand opening weekend. We were able to get a table and unanimously decided that’s where we’ll go - as we’ve heard tremendous things about the hotel in its early days in the area.

Upon arrival we walked into this chic yet homey establishment. The bar was crowded, but never felt packed. Patrons were enjoying laughter and smiles from the bar with a row of tables behind them dining taking in the scenery and very unique decorations adorning the walls.

After just a moments wait, we were ushered to our table where we had the best experience with the entire team. Several ordered margaritas, which were a hit, others commented on the wine selection and how every thirst could be quenched from it. A simple Vodka and Tonic was received with open arms as well. I, a beer man, loved the tap selections as they had my favorite Scofflaw Basement IPA.

For the table we went with the Jalapeño Hush Puppies and Calamari. Both terrific. The Puppies not too spicy but just the right level of heat to make you want to wash it down with the aforementioned Basement IPA. However the star of the opening round was the butter. We tasted the notes of flavor, including the perfect amount of sweetness, and guesses from across the table came flying in. At a loss for words on how this perfect addition to these hush puppies could have been created - our waitress informed us it was Shorgum Butter. It has been hard to look back knowing I’d lived all these years without being able to love that which I did not know - but its name was Shorgum Butter.

From there we moved onto the main course. Which had everyone’s internal decision making process in a real pickle. So many options, each described more perfectly than the last. I went with the Burger - and it was tremendous. Truffle fries to pair with it were truly the star of the show - highly recommend. We had a French Dip that tasted like grandmothers pot roast inside of a crispy, chewy ciabatta. Absolute perfection. The corn ravioli was prepared with a combination of flavors often reserved only for dreams. We had a Caesar salad that was described as “immaculate”. The fish tacos were perfectly crisped fried fish and enough heat to make you want another swig of your perfect cocktail. We rounded out with the wings - which I couldn’t have pulled off my smoker in a million years any better. Tender and juicy, yet crisp and succulent. Paired with an Alabama White Sauce that tasted like it came out of an episode of Guy Ferrari’s Diners and Drive In’s.

With our belts buckling, we ogled over the desert menu, but no one had any room left to pull the trigger. Skipping out on desert and also knowing that we had to return for the Brussel Sprouts and Mac and Cheese sides for the table makes me wish we were heading back to The...

Vandiver is our go to spot in Clayton and has been for a long time. Whether it is a casual night out or a special occasion, this is always the first place that comes to mind. I have hosted private events here and every single time the staff goes above and beyond to make it seamless and fun.

The food is incredible. Their chicken salad is the best I have ever had, hands down. The chicken piccata is to die for and is one of those dishes you find yourself craving days later. The menu feels thoughtful and everything that comes out of the kitchen is fresh, flavorful, and beautifully done.

George is our bartender and he is truly the best. He has our regular in front of us within minutes of sitting down and always makes us feel like we are right at home. There is something special about walking into a place where they know your order and your name. That kind of hospitality is rare and Vandiver delivers it every time.

The atmosphere and vibe are exactly what you want. Warm, lively, and full of energy without ever feeling chaotic. It is the kind of spot where you can dress up a little or come as you are and still feel perfectly comfortable. The music, the lighting, and the overall feel of the place all come together to create a space you actually look forward to being in.

I truly cannot say enough about Vandiver and the entire team. If you are in Clayton and looking for a place with amazing food, incredible drinks, and a staff that makes you feel like...

This place is a classy joint right in the heart of charming downtown Clayton, GA. Service was spectacular from the moment we walked in. Our server was Alex, and she was amazing. She is very attentive, personable, and is a great server. My wife and I were on a date night, which I put down when I made the reservation on Opentable. When she introduced herself, she mentioned that she heard it was date night. In my opinion, this speaks volumes as to the kind of server she is. The fact that she took the time to actually get to know a little bit about the customers shows that she is the kind of worker that goes above and beyond. I have no doubt we were not the firsts, nor will be the lasts to be provided this top-notch service.

As for the food, it was delicious. I had the hamburger cooked medium, and it hit the spot. My wife got the Caesar salad which she said was also delicious. Our dessert was the home-made iced cream which was another item that did not disappoint.

We don't drink, but if we did, this place would appear to be an ideal place for a beverage. The bar looked classy, and from afar the barkeep certainly presented the part. They do have a good selection of mocktails too.

I would recommend for a date night, anniversaries, special...